Morgan Log House to host fundraising event

TOWAMENCIN — Colonists living in America drank beer and cider on a daily basis, according to Sarah DiSantis, executive director of the Morgan Log House.

She says that in the 17th and 18 centuries, three types of beer were brewed regularly.

According to DiSantis, small beer — with an alcohol content of 2 percent or less — was served to children.

She said women and servants often drank common beer, which had an alcohol content similar to modern day lager.

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A strong beer — with an alcohol content of 7 to 10 percent — was consumed during special occasions, DiSantis said.

Later this summer, the historic facility at 895 Weikel Road will host a fundraising event where attendees will get to sample food, beer, wine and whiskey from the Colonial era.

Two sessions have been scheduled for the Tavern on the Green event, scheduled for Sept. 12.

During a private VIP session from 5 to 6 p.m., participants will be able to sample brandies and liquors from the 17th and 18th centuries as well as learn about the distillation process from an expert, according to DiSantis.

She said an original still from the 17th Century, and the replica of an 18th Century still will be on display during the outdoor event.

From 6 to 7:30 p.m., during a public session, attendees will be able to sample Welsh and German tavern food — which resembles appetizers — according to DiSantis.

She said local brewers and wineries will be invited to incorporate their products with the food.

The township’s board of supervisors recently voted to permit the sampling of alcohol during the event and the use of parking lot at the Towamencin Community Pool across Weikel Road, according to municipal Manager Rob Ford.

Between 100 and 150 people are expected for the fundraiser, according to DiSantis.

For access to the VIP session, a donation of $250 is required, according to the event flier.

It states that the donor will receive access to the period brandy and liquor tasting, and that the sponsor’s name will appear in the program booklet and on the museum’s website.

Sponsorship options range from $500 to $5,000.

Tickets for the late session cost $40 per person, $70 a couple and $30 for a designated driver, according to the flier.

All proceeds will benefit the Welsh Valley Preservation Society, a 501-(c)3 non-profit organization that cares for Historic Morgan Log House, a National Registered Historic Site with a mission of education and preservation, according to DiSantis.

The ticket price includes beer, wine, food, music, brewing and distilling demonstrations and a house tour.

“We’re always trying to find new ways to bring in new funding and keep the society growing,” she said. “Instead of leaving things the way they are, we decided to create a more intimate evening.”

DiSantis said she is most excited about the opportunity to educate the public on the period food and drink related to the house and attract different people to the facility.

“We’re able to combine the fundraising aspect with the core educational mission of the site,” she said. “No one else in the immediate area is doing anything like this.”